Where the Dead Pause, and the Japanese Say Goodbye
A Journey
23 February 2016
Description
How does one cope with overwhelming grief?
Marie Mutsuki Mockett’s family owns a Buddhist temple but after the Fukushima disaster, radiation levels prohibited the burial of her Japanese grandfather’s bones. As Japan mourned, Mockett also grieved for her American father who had died unexpectedly. Seeking consolation, Mockett is guided by a colourful cast of Zen priests and ordinary Japanese who perform rituals that disturb, haunt and finally uplift her.
Reviews
"Mockettt's book is a moving and lyrically written account of her physical and emotional journey to a side of Japan few of us are privileged enough ever to see." — Literary Review
"[Mockett] has written an odd, revealing and at times very painful book, but one that is ultimately consoling." — The Belfast Telegraph
"[Mockett] sweeps away some of the stereotypes [of the Japanese] as she learns how the country is dealing with its collective grief through stoicism, denial, spiritual belief, and even humour." — New Internationalist
Awards
Shortlisted — ABA Indies Choice Book Award, 2016
Shortlisted — PEN/Open Book Award, 2016
Shortlisted — Northern California Book Award, 2016
